HC Deb 21 February 1945 vol 408 cc787-8
37. Sir W. Davison

asked the Minister of Works whether he is aware of the infestation of Hyde Park by rats and, in particular, of the island which used to be a breeding ground for wildfowl; what action is being taken to deal with this matter; how many rats were destroyed in accordance with the Ministry of Food Infestation Order of 1943; and whether any report was made to the Ministry as required of local authorities under the terms of the Order.

Mr. Sandys

My hon. Friend is mistaken in thinking that the provisions of the Ministry of Food Infestation Order of 1943 apply to Hyde Park. I am advised that the number of rats in the Park is not abnormal and has probably decreased in the last few years.

Sir W. Davison

Is it not a fact that owing to the large number of rats on that island in Hyde Park, the wild fowl which used to breed there and were a great feature of the landscape, have ceased to breed there; having been driven off by the rats? Does the Minister not think it wrong that his Ministry should allow this infestation to take place in a Royal Park, when all the London boroughs are being urged to put a stop to infestation in the interests of the food supply?

Mr. Sandys

My hon. Friend appears to be getting very worked up about this. I have made inquiries about the matter, and I am told that boatmen on the Serpentine have not noticed any unusual number of rats, and that rats are being killed at the rate of two a day.